On primary eve, Trump touts early opening for D.C. hotel

HAMPTON, N.H. — A day before voters head to the polls in the presidential primary here, Donald Trump’s company blasted out a press release declaring that he would open the Trump International Hotel in Washington, D.C. — just a few blocks east of the White House — in September, two years ahead of schedule.

The hotel, which will occupy the Old Post Office building on Pennsylvania Avenue, would open at a crucial point in the general election timeline, should Trump win the Republican nomination in July. The project has been a regular part of Trump’s speeches on the campaign trail, a talking point in support of his claim that he’s a master negotiator and was able to win approval for his project from the Obama administration.

The press release, though, heaps praise on the federal government — specifically the General Services Administration — for helping the project move forward.

“For decades people have looked in wonderment at the magnificence of the Old Post Office building and structure. There is nothing like it and we are so proud to have not only brought this incredible building back to life, but also to a position far greater than it ever was at its previous zenith,’ Trump said in a statement. “It was an honor to have dealt with the professionals at the General Services Administration. It was their total passion and hard work that helped bring this unrivaled project to fruition.

The release also included a statement from Trump’s daughter, Ivanka, who is expected to join Trump’s other children in running the company should Trump win the presidency.

The hotel includes 263 rooms and 35 suites, as well as a 13,200-foot “Presidential Ballroom.”